Being a full-time resident of D.C. oftentimes means that one overlooks or forgets about all of the great offerings of the District until something big happens. It’s been years since I visited the Washington Monument and months since I’ve stepped into a museum. I mean, I look down my street and see the Capitol building from my bus stop every morning, for pete’s sake! Where’s my sense of history?

Just when I’d almost gotten ready to hole up for the winter and repudiate the outside world entirely, the re-opening of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History has helped to remind me of how lucky I am to live in this city. And to remind me that I need to get out and see more of the free offerings of D.C.

The museum re-opened today after months of renovations. For anybody who visited the place before you know that it was great in presenting seminal moments of history in themed tableau and the like. But it was also full of hopelessly outdated displays, weird elevator corridors, and dark empty corners that seemed to have been left out of the whole curatorial process thing.

Now it’s gotten a shiny makeover, replete with actual shininess, as in the reflective flag now mounted outside the building, as seen above. And while the reviews coming in aren’t exactly genuflecting (see the New York Times for exhibit A), the DCGF is excited to visit some of the newly restored clothing and costume sections. You’ll get my first-hand account in December, but for now, I’d like to share some of the historical interiors that make for fascinating viewing.

First up is Julia Child’s kitchen, part of which is seen at left. The reflection part comes from the entire room being encased in plexiglass. It’s really quite incredible when you think about it: an entire room from Child’s Cambridge, MA, home donated lock, stock, and barrel to the museum with every utensil put into its place upon arrival. It’s almost as if Child’s herself will bound around the corner and start whisking up something in a mixing bowl.

For anyone who’s ever aspired to the all-stainless steel kitchen with high-tech gadgets and sub-zero refrigerators, this kitchen is a subtle reminder that it’s not the tools that make the cook. Her tools are humble wooden spoons and standard-issue department store appliances. No need for fancy dish towels here!

If you thought Mrs. Goodbee was a fancy dollhouse, how about The Dolls’ House designed by Faith Bradford? With over 1,350 miniatures inside its 23 rooms, this perfectly scaled house is enough to keep any child occupied for the duration of his or her childhood.

The inhabitants of the house include Mr. and Mrs. Peter Doll, their 10 children, two visiting grandparents, five servants (that tells you how old it is!) and 20 pets. The details are amazing, right down to all of the junk they have stored in their attic. Need decorating inspiration on a small scale? Look no further…

At the opposite end of the spectrum is a real, full-size house. Built in Ipswich, MA, in the 1760s, the Georgian-style 2 1/2 story A-frame house was owned by five different families before being disassembled beam by beam and reassembled inside the museum. They’ve kept part of the siding off, as you can see, to display the interior and show how the house was modified over the decades.

And here’s the cool part: artifacts from each of the families have been placed inside and around the house, include 18th-century furniture, 19th-century books, and 20th century electronics. How cool would it be to be able to look back and see remnants of everyone who had lived in your place before? Or at least the good stuff..

I’m excited to go visit the new version of this American classic. I’m going to wait until the crowds die down a bit, though. I’m sure it was really busy this morning and the weekend will probably be the same. The DCGF is heading back to her home state of Indiana next week, but have no fear! The blog will continue unabated. And next week’s Good Buys are somethin’ special. See you then!

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on ebay.com funds Goodwill’s mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities. Copyright Goodwill of Greater Washington, DC Goodwill Fashion Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Every now and again here at Goodwill, we get to collaborate with some pretty cool corporate partners for things like donation drives, trunk shows, and the like, either on a regional or national scale. But never before have we done something so big in such a major way as Caring Corner’s Mrs. Goodbee.

Who’s Mrs. Goodbee, you ask? Why, she’s only the best, most interactive dollhouse ever! She talks, every one of her rooms features sound and response to a child’s play, she has a Good Deeds Garden, and she’s the brainchild of Jerry Perez, the General Manager of Learning Curve West, of which Caring Corners is one of many brands. You might be more familiar with her kindred toys Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends, but I think Mrs. Goodbee’s soon going to make a name for herself.

You see, we don’t sell her at Goodwill stores - she can be found at most major retailers with a sizable toy department - but she’s designed to teach children social responsibility. And just how does a dollhouse accomplish that feat? Inside each box is a brochure encouraging children to re-use the box in which the dollhouse arrived by filling it with gently used goods and taking it to their local Goodwill donation center. Once there, the children get a code that unlocks an online game on the Learning Curve website plus the good feeling that comes from donating too Goodwill. It’s a win-win! The DCGF emailed a totaly new version of her Soon-to-be-Famous Five (Plus One) Questions to Jerry Perez in order to learn a bit more about all of this. Here’s what he had to say…

1. As General Manager of Learning Curve West, you oversee a variety of brands and products. Why use a dollhouse to help teach children about social responsibility? [Perez, Jerry] The dollhouse is one of the most engaging toy formats ever, and I remember my girls [That's Perez and his daughers, at left. -ed.] playing with theirs practically every day of their early childhood. It’s also a place where kids play out the social scenarios they are seeing around them in the real world—interacting with other people, caring for others and learning to get along. What better way, then, to instill early messages about caring, sharing and preparing for the responsibilities that await them in the real world. Our child development partner on this house—Dr. Michele Borba—advocates for encouragement of these values at the earliest possible age and dollhouse play is obviously one of the best ways to do this without kids even realizing they are “learning.”

2. Mrs. Goodbee has an interactive component to her, including the Garden of Giving. How do you see this enhancing the child’s real-world experience with the toy, including their potential donation to Goodwill? [Perez, Jerry] The electronic interactivity in Mrs. Goodbee, her artificial intelligence if you will, is absolutely key to her appeal. So is the online component, as embodied in the Good Deeds Garden. With the Garden, children get stickers every time they do a real world act of caring, sharing and preparing, and some of these stickers unlock special games at caringcorners.com. Product details like these bring the dollhouse format into the 21st century and they create an experience that is competitive with the screen-based products kids are engaging with so frequently today. Having a toy reinforce positive values repeatedly and interactively will insure that they “stick” with the child long after the play experience is over.

3. I love how the different parts of the house react differently depending on how the child’s play changes. What is your favorite aspect of Mrs. Goodbee? [Perez, Jerry] My personal favorite involves the first truly interactive bathroom ever in a dollhouse! If you flush the toilet, you will get a fun flushing sound. Then it you take the doll over to the sink and “wash your hands,” Mrs. Goodbee, being a smart house, understands that you washed your hands after going to the bathroom, and she rewards you with a hearty “Flush, Wash, Wonderful!” The same kind of positive reinforcement also happens when you put the baby in the cradle after you hear the baby cry or you put the puppy in its bed after you hear the puppy yawn. While kids love all these interactive hot spots in the house, the toilet is the one they play with the most. But if they flush it too much, Mrs. Goodbee will gently remind them, “That’s much too much flush,” reinforcing the value of not wasting water.

4. What are some future ideas you’d like to pursue with the donating component of the toy? Perhaps a play pack that includes a Goodwill shopping bag? [Perez, Jerry] That’s a good idea! The whole Goodwill partnership and our Carton of Caring program is perfect to reinforce the toy’s philosophy of caring and sharing. When it comes to donating, you’ve got to make it a first-hand experience for the child, literally allowing them to personally experience the very satisfying end benefit. The parent’s positive reaction when the child participates in the donation, the Goodwill employee’s reaction and the certificate of appreciation—these are all positive reinforcements that take “giving” from a very abstract concept to a positive reality. Whatever we do in the future will have this real world experience component.

5. What is it about Goodwill’s mission that you think will resonate with Mrs. Goodbee shoppers? Do you think young children will understand the impact of their donation on their community? [Perez, Jerry] As you already know, most people think of Goodwill as both a donation and a shopping opportunity. It’s been our experience, though, that most people don’t understand the job training and job creation component of Goodwill’s mission. Hopefully, we at Learning Curve have been helpful in getting that word out with the Carton of Caring program. [That's Goodwill of Greater Washington employee Richard Jefferson in the promotional poster accepting a carton, at right. -ed.]And, in these tough economic times, everyone can relate to the importance of meaningful employment. Whether or not children understand the impact of their actions is dependent on whether the parent or guardian uses the donation as a “teachable moment.” That’s why we’ve included a parent guide in every Mrs. Goodbee dollhouse—to provide advice that helps parents make this much more than just a play experience.

Bonus question! What’s the one toy you’ve always wanted to design, but haven’t been able to because of cost, logistics, etc.? The sky’s the limit! [Perez, Jerry] Wow, good question, you’ve really been thinking about this interview. Interestingly, the barriers to my vision of the perfect toy have nothing to do with cost or logistics. They have to do what our society and our children perceive as valuable and cool. I would love to follow up Mrs. Goodbee with more products that don’t insist that you have to look a certain way to be considered beautiful or don’t reinforce that negative behaviors make you cool. Unfortunately, these values run counter to a lot of what kids and seeing and hearing in our media-saturated environment. It’s up to us as parents to make sure we’re carefully monitoring the influences around our kids, and it’s up to those of us who make products for kids to help make it easier. I try to do both, and a product like Mrs. Goodbee makes me feel we’re getting one step closer to that vision.

It’s the DCGF back again here. Great interview, right? If you’re in the market for a dollhouse this holiday season for some li’l kiddo, you know what to get now! It’s the gift that keeps on giving back…

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on ebay.com funds Goodwill’s mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities. Copyright Goodwill of Greater Washington, DC Goodwill Fashion Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Ran into an old friend on the bus the other day, dear readers, and he had on the coolest cashmere-blend winter coat. I’m talking great color, great cut, great fit. I was a tad jealous, I must say, even though his men’s coat wouldn’t fit me. But it got me to thinking about cashmere and what a wonderful fabric it is, surprisingly versatile and oh-so-soft and warm.

The title of today’s blog is the scientific name of the cashmere goat (in all its shaggy glory, right), whence derives all cashmere yarns. And while this goat might be somewhat rare and precious, there’s no reason not to find stylish cashmere sweaters across a range of price points.

In the $100 spectrum, I wanted to show you the totally fun Halogen Ruffle Cashmere Cardigans, or one of the Halogen Pattern Cashmere Cardigans, but seeing as how those are all but sold old (they were featured in Nordstrom’s last mailer), I’ll have to settle for the slightly more mundane, yet equally wardrobe-enhancing Halogen Scoop Neck Cashmere Cardigan, available in Asian Plum (shown at left), Black or Pale Heather Grey.

I like this for a couple of reasons. It’s lightweight and great for layering which, if you work in an office like mine where we sometimes swelter and other times shiver, is a good thing. Also it’s from a Nordstrom house brand - Halogen - that I know produces good quality items that, while they won’t become heirlooms, will get you through several seasons. And while the patterned and ruffled versions cost $98, the plain colored one costs $88.

For even less money, you can wear an Isaac Mizrahi for Target Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater in one of a wide range of color selections, including Park Green, shown at right. Available online only and currently on sale for $39.99, this would look so chic underneath a jumper or paired with a plaid skirt and boots.

In general, the reviews for this brand’s cashmere are very positive; many reviewers said the fabric felt just as soft as far more expensive brands. I like that there’s such a range of colors and other styles - v-necks, cardigans, even capes - available at reasonable price points. Go Isaac!

At a level higher than the Nordstrom sweaters - the level I consider “Completely Out Of My Reach Unless It’s Very Deeply Discounted” - stands Vince. I love this line. I think I only own a couple of tank tops from them, though. Maybe a skirt I bought on clearance.

Anywho…Vince’s cashmere is like a big soft hug in clothing form and their Cashmere Boyfriend Cardigan is no exception. This will definitely feel thicker and softer than the other two, plus the ombre color scheme really sets it apart. I love the longer hemline (it would look smashing over a dress of the same length) and deep v-neck. Basically, it’s perfect. Oh, except for the part where it costs $325. Ouch. Like I said, look for it on sale!

Finally, there’s the cream of the crop, the tip of the top, the DCGF’s “dream sweater” in cashmere: Lucien Pellat-Finet. I’m partial to the black version with the crystal skull on the front, like the sunglass one at right. I saw one hanging on a rack at a boutique in SoHo when I was in NYC last spring and just about fainted.

There is was, size XL (read: size Medium for the rest of us mere mortals) with the skull, black, perfect, etc., etc. The price? A jaw-dropping $3200. I was scared to touch the thing. But I summoned the courage and found the most luxurious cashmere ever to grace my fingertips. I… want… so… bad…

But who am I kidding? I’ll never get a Lucien Pellat-Finet. But who needs one of those when I could just iron a patch onto the Isaac Mizrahi version? Better yet, I’ll get one downstairs for $6 and have at it with a Beddazler. Done. I’ll let ya know how it turns out. Ha.

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on ebay.com funds Goodwill’s mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities. Copyright Goodwill of Greater Washington, DC Goodwill Fashion Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Not talking about hats here, dear readers, but rather the perfect top for the holidays. You know, that great piece that you can wear from party to party without worrying about fit or comfort. The one that you’ll go to again and again to pair with pants and skirts of various colors and styles. Well lucky for you, the DCGF has two such gems for this week’s Goodwill Good Buy of the Week.

First up is a black fitted blouse from Valentino Boutique. It’s in a stiff satin fabric with contrasting ivory plastic multi-faceted buttons and three-quarter length sleeves. It’s fully lined and the seaming creates a narrow waist with a fun flare above the hips. The blouse has a flattering portrait neckline, suitable for showing off a great necklace or earrings. The lightly padded shoulder give structure but don’t overwhelm the silhouette. In short, this might be one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve ever featured on the blog; it’s hard to capture just how great it is in pictures.

The jacket is lightly worn and in a size 12, but remember: it’s Italian, so it’s closer to a US10. Full measurements will be on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today. Since the jacket has a slight sheen to it, I’ve paired it with a slightly shiny pair of stretch trousers by Alice + Olivia, in a size 8. The pants features front and back patch pockets and a boot cut trouser. Their neutral khaki color would look equally great with a white shirt and denim jacket, too.

The next look adds a splash of color in the form of an ultra flattering wrap shirt from Diane von Furstenberg. In turquoise silk with a touch of stretch, this might be the second best thing I’ve ever had on the blog. It features a standing collar neckline, with a v-neck that will plunge as far as you choose. The ties around the waist are long enough to wrap a couple of times, creating a self-fabric belt that can be loosened after dinner, if needs be. Ha.

The shirt hits right at the hips, so no worrying about annoying gaps between top and bottom. The sleeves are full length and the cuffs have elasticized ruching that echoes the pattern on the collar. This jewel tone piece will last for years to come. You know that Diane’s pieces are destined to become classics!

Since this tops is a bit busier than the Valentino, I’ve paired it with simple straight-cut black velvet trousers from Dana Buchman. Did you know that her items are now going to be sold exclusively at Kohl’s as Dana Buchman Vision? Crazy, right? Well, these are from her original, high-end collection and are in a size 8. These will be very useful all throughout the holidays, as their simple styling makes them a go-to piece for pairing with all kinds of sweaters, blouses, and blazers.

What I really like about both of these pieces is their details, especially at the cuffs. As you can see in the close-up pic at right, you won’t even need any jewelry, the garments are already so elegantly embellished.

This time of year is perhaps my favorite for getting dressed, and whether you celebrate a certain holiday or not, it’s fun to play with texture and fabric, as these two ensembles show. Don’t be afraid to mix silk and velvet, or two different types of satins. Have fun with your wardrobe and layer to your heart’s content. You look good!

Not talking about hats here, dear readers, but rather the perfect top for the holidays. You know, that great piece that you can wear from party to party without worrying about fit or comfort. The one that you’ll go to again and again to pair with pants and skirts of various colors and styles. Well lucky for you, the DCGF has two such gems for this week’s Goodwill Good Buy of the Week.

First up is a black fitted blouse from Valentino Boutique. It’s in a stiff satin fabric with contrasting ivory plastic multi-faceted buttons and three-quarter length sleeves. It’s fully lined and the seaming creates a narrow waist with a fun flare above the hips. The blouse has a flattering portrait neckline, suitable for showing off a great necklace or earrings. The lightly padded shoulder give structure but don’t overwhelm the silhouette. In short, this might be one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve ever featured on the blog; it’s hard to capture just how great it is in pictures.

The jacket is lightly worn and in a size 12, but remember: it’s Italian, so it’s closer to a US10. Full measurements will be on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today. Since the jacket has a slight sheen to it, I’ve paired it with a slightly shiny pair of stretch trousers by Alice + Olivia, in a size 8. The pants features front and back patch pockets and a boot cut trouser. Their neutral khaki color would look equally great with a white shirt and denim jacket, too.

The next look adds a splash of color in the form of an ultra flattering wrap shirt from Diane von Furstenberg. In turquoise silk with a touch of stretch, this might be the second best thing I’ve ever had on the blog. It features a standing collar neckline, with a v-neck that will plunge as far as you choose. The ties around the waist are long enough to wrap a couple of times, creating a self-fabric belt that can be loosened after dinner, if needs be. Ha.

The shirt hits right at the hips, so no worrying about annoying gaps between top and bottom. The sleeves are full length and the cuffs have elasticized ruching that echoes the pattern on the collar. This jewel tone piece will last for years to come. You know that Diane’s pieces are destined to become classics!

Since this tops is a bit busier than the Valentino, I’ve paired it with simple straight-cut black velvet trousers from Dana Buchman. Did you know that her items are now going to be sold exclusively at Kohl’s as Dana Buchman Vision? Crazy, right? Well, these are from her original, high-end collection and are in a size 8. These will be very useful all throughout the holidays, as their simple styling makes them a go-to piece for pairing with all kinds of sweaters, blouses, and blazers.

What I really like about both of these pieces is their details, especially at the cuffs. As you can see in the close-up pic at right, you won’t even need any jewelry, the garments are already so elegantly embellished.

This time of year is perhaps my favorite for getting dressed, and whether you celebrate a certain holiday or not, it’s fun to play with texture and fabric, as these two ensembles show. Don’t be afraid to mix silk and velvet, or two different types of satins. Have fun with your wardrobe and layer to your heart’s content. You look good!

Not talking about hats here, dear readers, but rather the perfect top for the holidays. You know, that great piece that you can wear from party to party without worrying about fit or comfort. The one that you’ll go to again and again to pair with pants and skirts of various colors and styles. Well lucky for you, the DCGF has two such gems for this week’s Goodwill Good Buy of the Week.

First up is a black fitted blouse from Valentino Boutique. It’s in a stiff satin fabric with contrasting ivory plastic multi-faceted buttons and three-quarter length sleeves. It’s fully lined and the seaming creates a narrow waist with a fun flare above the hips. The blouse has a flattering portrait neckline, suitable for showing off a great necklace or earrings. The lightly padded shoulder give structure but don’t overwhelm the silhouette. In short, this might be one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve ever featured on the blog; it’s hard to capture just how great it is in pictures.

The jacket is lightly worn and in a size 12, but remember: it’s Italian, so it’s closer to a US10. Full measurements will be on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today. Since the jacket has a slight sheen to it, I’ve paired it with a slightly shiny pair of stretch trousers by Alice + Olivia, in a size 8. The pants features front and back patch pockets and a boot cut trouser. Their neutral khaki color would look equally great with a white shirt and denim jacket, too.

The next look adds a splash of color in the form of an ultra flattering wrap shirt from Diane von Furstenberg. In turquoise silk with a touch of stretch, this might be the second best thing I’ve ever had on the blog. It features a standing collar neckline, with a v-neck that will plunge as far as you choose. The ties around the waist are long enough to wrap a couple of times, creating a self-fabric belt that can be loosened after dinner, if needs be. Ha.

The shirt hits right at the hips, so no worrying about annoying gaps between top and bottom. The sleeves are full length and the cuffs have elasticized ruching that echoes the pattern on the collar. This jewel tone piece will last for years to come. You know that Diane’s pieces are destined to become classics!

Since this tops is a bit busier than the Valentino, I’ve paired it with simple straight-cut black velvet trousers from Dana Buchman. Did you know that her items are now going to be sold exclusively at Kohl’s as Dana Buchman Vision? Crazy, right? Well, these are from her original, high-end collection and are in a size 8. These will be very useful all throughout the holidays, as their simple styling makes them a go-to piece for pairing with all kinds of sweaters, blouses, and blazers.

What I really like about both of these pieces is their details, especially at the cuffs. As you can see in the close-up pic at right, you won’t even need any jewelry, the garments are already so elegantly embellished.

This time of year is perhaps my favorite for getting dressed, and whether you celebrate a certain holiday or not, it’s fun to play with texture and fabric, as these two ensembles show. Don’t be afraid to mix silk and velvet, or two different types of satins. Have fun with your wardrobe and layer to your heart’s content. You look good!

Not talking about hats here, dear readers, but rather the perfect top for the holidays. You know, that great piece that you can wear from party to party without worrying about fit or comfort. The one that you’ll go to again and again to pair with pants and skirts of various colors and styles. Well lucky for you, the DCGF has two such gems for this week’s Goodwill Good Buy of the Week.

First up is a black fitted blouse from Valentino Boutique. It’s in a stiff satin fabric with contrasting ivory plastic multi-faceted buttons and three-quarter length sleeves. It’s fully lined and the seaming creates a narrow waist with a fun flare above the hips. The blouse has a flattering portrait neckline, suitable for showing off a great necklace or earrings. The lightly padded shoulder give structure but don’t overwhelm the silhouette. In short, this might be one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve ever featured on the blog; it’s hard to capture just how great it is in pictures.

The jacket is lightly worn and in a size 12, but remember: it’s Italian, so it’s closer to a US10. Full measurements will be on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today. Since the jacket has a slight sheen to it, I’ve paired it with a slightly shiny pair of stretch trousers by Alice + Olivia, in a size 8. The pants features front and back patch pockets and a boot cut trouser. Their neutral khaki color would look equally great with a white shirt and denim jacket, too.

The next look adds a splash of color in the form of an ultra flattering wrap shirt from Diane von Furstenberg. In turquoise silk with a touch of stretch, this might be the second best thing I’ve ever had on the blog. It features a standing collar neckline, with a v-neck that will plunge as far as you choose. The ties around the waist are long enough to wrap a couple of times, creating a self-fabric belt that can be loosened after dinner, if needs be. Ha.

The shirt hits right at the hips, so no worrying about annoying gaps between top and bottom. The sleeves are full length and the cuffs have elasticized ruching that echoes the pattern on the collar. This jewel tone piece will last for years to come. You know that Diane’s pieces are destined to become classics!

Since this tops is a bit busier than the Valentino, I’ve paired it with simple straight-cut black velvet trousers from Dana Buchman. Did you know that her items are now going to be sold exclusively at Kohl’s as Dana Buchman Vision? Crazy, right? Well, these are from her original, high-end collection and are in a size 8. These will be very useful all throughout the holidays, as their simple styling makes them a go-to piece for pairing with all kinds of sweaters, blouses, and blazers.

What I really like about both of these pieces is their details, especially at the cuffs. As you can see in the close-up pic at right, you won’t even need any jewelry, the garments are already so elegantly embellished.

This time of year is perhaps my favorite for getting dressed, and whether you celebrate a certain holiday or not, it’s fun to play with texture and fabric, as these two ensembles show. Don’t be afraid to mix silk and velvet, or two different types of satins. Have fun with your wardrobe and layer to your heart’s content. You look good!

Not talking about hats here, dear readers, but rather the perfect top for the holidays. You know, that great piece that you can wear from party to party without worrying about fit or comfort. The one that you’ll go to again and again to pair with pants and skirts of various colors and styles. Well lucky for you, the DCGF has two such gems for this week’s Goodwill Good Buy of the Week.

First up is a black fitted blouse from Valentino Boutique. It’s in a stiff satin fabric with contrasting ivory plastic multi-faceted buttons and three-quarter length sleeves. It’s fully lined and the seaming creates a narrow waist with a fun flare above the hips. The blouse has a flattering portrait neckline, suitable for showing off a great necklace or earrings. The lightly padded shoulder give structure but don’t overwhelm the silhouette. In short, this might be one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve ever featured on the blog; it’s hard to capture just how great it is in pictures.

The jacket is lightly worn and in a size 12, but remember: it’s Italian, so it’s closer to a US10. Full measurements will be on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today. Since the jacket has a slight sheen to it, I’ve paired it with a slightly shiny pair of stretch trousers by Alice + Olivia, in a size 8. The pants features front and back patch pockets and a boot cut trouser. Their neutral khaki color would look equally great with a white shirt and denim jacket, too.

The next look adds a splash of color in the form of an ultra flattering wrap shirt from Diane von Furstenberg. In turquoise silk with a touch of stretch, this might be the second best thing I’ve ever had on the blog. It features a standing collar neckline, with a v-neck that will plunge as far as you choose. The ties around the waist are long enough to wrap a couple of times, creating a self-fabric belt that can be loosened after dinner, if needs be. Ha.

The shirt hits right at the hips, so no worrying about annoying gaps between top and bottom. The sleeves are full length and the cuffs have elasticized ruching that echoes the pattern on the collar. This jewel tone piece will last for years to come. You know that Diane’s pieces are destined to become classics!

Since this tops is a bit busier than the Valentino, I’ve paired it with simple straight-cut black velvet trousers from Dana Buchman. Did you know that her items are now going to be sold exclusively at Kohl’s as Dana Buchman Vision? Crazy, right? Well, these are from her original, high-end collection and are in a size 8. These will be very useful all throughout the holidays, as their simple styling makes them a go-to piece for pairing with all kinds of sweaters, blouses, and blazers.

What I really like about both of these pieces is their details, especially at the cuffs. As you can see in the close-up pic at right, you won’t even need any jewelry, the garments are already so elegantly embellished.

This time of year is perhaps my favorite for getting dressed, and whether you celebrate a certain holiday or not, it’s fun to play with texture and fabric, as these two ensembles show. Don’t be afraid to mix silk and velvet, or two different types of satins. Have fun with your wardrobe and layer to your heart’s content. You look good!

Oh, my what a busy weekend, dear readers! As you know, the DCGF was awash in eco-friendliness at the DC Green Festival. We knew our “turn a t-shirt into a reusable shopping bag” project would be fun, but we didn’t know it would be darn near the most popular project at the festival. Over 130 t-shirts were transformed and given another life as a stylish shopping bag, like the one at left that echoed the popular refrain, “I used to be a t-shirt.” Tie dye, plain colors, ironic sayings, goofy prints, and all sorts of customization abounded as happy kids, teens, and adults walked away with their new product.

All of this got me to thinking about different types of recycled and repurposed bags, beyond just the typical canvas grocery store variety. Awhile back an intrepid reader requested that I find a fashionable alternative to the typical messenger bag. This has proven quite a challenge. How do you transition from bicycle to bar scene and stay in style?

That has turned out to be quite a tough question to answer. I’ve found a few suggestions that I think at the very least will spark a discussion as to, “What is she carrying?” as opposed to “I can’t believe she’s carrying that ugly thing.”

At right is the Peter Island Pack bag from the Ella Vickers Recycled Sailcloth Collection. Yep, the bag’s comprised of recycled sails, making each bag unique. I think the tapered top and refined silhouette (it’s only 13″ tall and 5″ deep) makes this a chicer alternative to most backpacks. It costs $119, but will wear like iron for years of use.

If you need an edgier alternative, R.E.Load Baggage offers fully customizable bags in a variety of sizes, like the Courier model at left. The velcro colors alone include red, orange, black, yellow, brown, baby blue, royal blue, gray, navy blue (slightly lighter than midnight), green (kelly), and white. Awesome!

You basically build your bag from lining to trim to one-of-a-kind appliques and embroideries. Prices vary according to size and details, but the average price is about $200. I would totally love to put Good Willy on one of these babies!

Some of the bags are made of recycled banners and other materials, and you can even send them a jpg of what you want it to look like. The possibilities are virtually endless.

Not everybody needs a full-size bag to carry around with them all the time, though. i happen to have several friends who are photographers, but their ugly black pleather bags are a constant source of frustration. Sure, they’re practical, but where’s the fun?

Enter the Lowepro Terraclime 50, a sweet little lilac camera bag that’s over 95% recycled. Five PET bottles are used in the making of this model and there are various other sizes available. The bag retails for just $29.99, also comes in black or green, and is so much better looking than those other camera bags!

What other great options are out there? I’m so ready to go home and start stitching away at my own t-shirts. As soon as I recover from this weekend…

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